2019 Ram 1500 sets new standard for pickups
Pickup trucks are the backbone of small business in America, and they're popular as daily drivers for millions of families across the country. So when an automaker develops a new pickup, it's got to be the best they can possibly deliver. Ram Trucks just raised the bar significantly with the all-new 2019 Ram 1500.
The 2019 Ram starts with a completely new frame, designed to be stronger and smoother, with improved load carrying capacity. This truck will haul up to 2,300 pounds in the bed, and tow up to 12,750 pounds, yet it's almost 225 pounds lighter than last year's model. New larger 4-wheel disc brakes are also standard and very effective.
Ram offers four dramatically different engine options for this truck. First, the standard engine is a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 rated at 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. There will also be two mild hybrid options coming later this year, based on the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and the 5.7-liter V8. Then in 2019 Ram plans to add a turbo-diesel option.
The Ram 1500 transmission is an advanced 8-speed Torque-Flite automatic with your choice of rear-wheel-drive or two different four-wheel-drive systems. One is a traditional 4X4 setup, and the other offers a full-time on-demand 4WD option. That's the one you want for an Oregon winter.
The new Ram is available with an extended quad-cab or a full crew cab. Most of the four inches added to the overall length of the 2019 Ram crew cab went into the rear seat area for more legroom and storage. The quad cab rear seat is tight for adults, but the crew cab offers limousine levels of rear seat space. Either cab choice is available with a 5-foot 7-inch or a 6-foot 4-inch bed.
Additional capability features include a towing package with dash-mounted trailer brake control, and an air suspension that allows you to lower the truck, back up to a trailer, and then raise the truck to engage the hitch coupler. If you pull a trailer, you'll know how significant that is.
Inside features include an available 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an optional center console that folds up into a third front-row seat. But the thing that will amaze you is the standard active noise cancellation system. Even over rough roads like we have in Portland, this truck is quieter inside than most luxury cars.
With the 5.7-liter base V8 engine, the new Ram has amazing power, incredible brakes, and smooth, confident handling. We towed about 5,000 pounds and the truck does everything you could ask. If you're shopping trucks this year, put the 2019 Ram 1500 at the top of your test-drive list.
2019 Ram 1500
Base price: $33,340
Price as tested: $43,540
Type: Full size half-ton pickup
Engine: 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lbs-ft)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
EPA estimated mileage: 15/22
Overall length: 228.9 inches
Curb weight: 4,600-6,000 pounds (est)
Final assembly: Sterling Heights, Michigan
